Name : Bhimakali Temple
Location :
Shri Bhima Kali Temple is a temple at Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh in India. The temple is situated about 180 km from Shimla. The town Sarahan is known as the gate way of Kinnaur. From Jeori the link road goes up gaining altitude to 2185 M to Sarahan (17 KM) via Gharat. Sarahan is situated on the mountain slope of southern side of river Sutlej and facing the Srikhand Mahadev peak on the north. The distance from Shimla is 160 KM. Sarahan is identified with the then Sonitpur mentioned in Puranas.
Legend :
According to a legend, the manifestation of the goddess is reported to the Daksha-Yajna incident when the ear of the Sati fell at this place and became a place of worship as a Pitha - Sthan. Presently in the form of a virgin the icon of this eternal goddess is consecrated at the top storey of the new building. Below that storey the goddess as Parvati, the daughter of Himalaya is enshrined as a divine consort of Lord Siva.
Description :
Bhimakali Temple, reputed to be at least 800 years old, dedicated to the mother goddess Bhimakali(an incarnation of Goddess Durga), presiding deity of the rulers of former Bushayr state and this is one of 51 Shakti Peethas.
The temple complex has another three temples dedicated to Lord Raghunathji, Narsinghji and Patal Bhairva Ji (Lankra Veer) - the guardian deity.
Architechture :
The temple is Tibetan in its architectural style. The beautiful wooden structure with spectacular carvings attracts a special attention of the tourists from all over the world. It has slanted slate roofs, golden towers, pagodas and a carved silver door. The golden image of the Goddess is 210 years old.
The original temple structure was damaged by earthquake and a replica has been constructed. Out of two temples one is opened to the devotees. The old dilapidated temple has been demolished recently and work is going on to erect the same again.
Festivals :
Navaratri and Dusserah are celebrated in the temple every year. A large festival is held during Dusserah at village Sarahan with animal sacrifice playing a big role in the festivities.
Other Tourist Attractions :
The museum at the temple complex has good collections of ancient utensils, arms, dresses, etc. The tourists can also visit the regal residence named as Padam Palace.
The Aviary of Himalayan birds: The aviary cum breeding centre of birds has been set up on the mountain at 1 KM away. The Himalayan birds like Monal, Khalij, etc can be seen from a close distance. The aviary remain closed during the breeding season.
The enthusiasts can visit another temple at Dharanghati beyond Sarahan. The road from Gharat goes to Dharanghati at higher altitude. The snow-capped mountain ranges on the north looks beautiful. From Sarahan there is a view of the Srikhand Peak , revered as the parental abode of goddess Lakshmi. The trekkers may visit the peak in summer.
Websites :
http://www.goldenapple.in/Sarahan.html
http://shimla.com/Temples/bhimakali.htm
No comments:
Post a Comment